weighted backpacking at school

Narya · August 19th, 2008, 06:41 PM

this might seem stupid or unhealthy, im just curious

my freshman year just started last week and until yesterday i was wondering why i needed a locker... the books teachers have given me each class weigh tons. i was just curious though, considering my backpack weighs in my estimates close to 30 lbs, this could be leg exercise? i mean walking around with it for like 5 mins between all 7 periods up and down 3 stories max of steps is pretty tough. would this build my legs, or would it damage my joints and back? lockers really are a pain in my @ss because i hate having to remember all the times i have to go back and get certain things out of it, when it would be simpler to have it all in my back pack. also none of my friends go to their lockers at the same time so thats not a reason either to go either. so... ?

**tooncesthecat** · August 19th, 2008, 06:47 PM

30 pounds wont build your legs. It will get your heart rate up more than just walking around, but the time between classes and the distance walked won't significantly burn fat or condition you either. The backpack won't hurt your back if you have a good, healthy back and abdominal muscles. Just don't wear it over one shoulder. Make sure it's over both.

Narya · August 19th, 2008, 08:10 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by tooncesthecat

30 pounds wont build your legs. It will get your heart rate up more than just walking around, but the time between classes and the distance walked won't significantly burn fat or condition you either. The backpack won't hurt your back if you have a good, healthy back and abdominal muscles. Just don't wear it over one shoulder. Make sure it's over both.

so basically your saying it isnt a hazard to my knees or other joints? today when i wanted to go jog 20 mins i was so tired i quit and went back home. not sure if it was the carrying that backpack everywhere or just starting school and having to get up early again

**cptobvious** · August 19th, 2008, 08:46 PM

probably the later. i do what we in the military call a "road march" or "ruck march"every other morning with about 60 lbs for about 8 miles, my knees are okay. if your back is hurting from it, and if there is room in your bag, try padding it with something. like toonces stated above, make sure it's over both shoulders.

**tooncesthecat** · August 19th, 2008, 10:11 PM

It's not that carrying a 30 pound backpack is easy or anything, especially if you just spent all summer playing video games, but it shouldn't hurt your joints or give you a great workout. Maybe a bit sore in the shoulders or torso if you're not in good shape.